Sports Mole compares Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona's Argentina careers, analysing their records, World Cup peaks, Copa America success and big-game performances.
| 08 Oct 2026 08:41 , Last updated: 08 Oct 2026 08:47
Lionel Messi finally brought the curtains down on his glittering Argentina career on Tuesday, bidding an emotional farewell to the supporters in Buenos Aires as the 39-year-old icon took his final bow in the colours of his beloved nation.
Playing in front of 85,000 adoring fans, Messi signed off with his 126th international goal as Argentina swept aside Benin 3-0 , adding one final flourish to an international career that has stretched across 21 years and produced moments that will live forever in the country's footballing folklore.
Coverage adapted for CNC Football News readers from public match and transfer reporting.
